Bangkok: Supajee Suthamphan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, expressed optimism about the continued growth of Thai exports, emphasizing the importance of opening new markets amidst the ongoing Middle East crisis. She highlighted the government's proactive efforts in pushing for five new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to address potential challenges in key export regions.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supajee spoke at the "Journalists' Market Fair, 8th Edition" in Bangkok, where the Economic Journalists Association showcased fruits from eastern Thailand. The event, supported by the Department of Internal Trade, aimed to distribute agricultural products directly to consumers, bolstering farmers' income through the journalists' network. Ms. Supajee pointed out the record-high performance of Thailand's exports in the first quarter, with agricultural products, in particular, showing strong growth in April compared to the previous year.
Ms. Supajee addressed challenges such as the increased production of durian, a high-value commodity, and its smaller size this year. She detailed efforts in pre-marketing and promoting small-sized durians, as well as opening border checkpoints to facilitate exports, especially to neighboring countries like Vietnam. These actions resulted in favorable export conditions in April and June.
The Deputy Prime Minister also discussed the impact of the conflict between the United States and Iran on Thai exports. Despite a peace agreement, ongoing monitoring is essential during the 60-day adherence period. To mitigate export difficulties in traditional Middle Eastern markets such as Iraq, the government is exploring alternative markets in South Africa, Latin America, and other regions.
Ms. Supajee outlined the Ministry of Commerce's accelerated efforts to finalize five FTAs and protocols approved by Parliament on June 17, 2026. These agreements aim to enhance trade opportunities with European, Asian, and global markets. The FTAs include the Thailand-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) FTA, Thailand-Bhutan FTA, ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA), ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (Second Protocol to Amend the ATIGA), and the Protocol to Amend the Marrakech Agreement concerning the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
Addressing fuel price trends, Ms. Supajee noted the continued impact of the Middle East situation on oil-producing countries. While fuel prices are generally decreasing, Thailand's reliance on Middle Eastern oil infrastructure poses challenges, affecting the cost of imported goods and the cost of living.
The Ministry of Commerce's "Thai Helps Thai" and "Thai Helps Thai Plus" projects, launched earlier this year, aim to manage the cost of living and support the growth of SMEs and small businesses nationwide. These initiatives have led to an increase in SME products available in the market since May.